West Nile Virus Found In City Mosquitoes For First Time This Year

NEW YORK CITY, NY – The West Nile virus has been found in New York City for the first time this year, the city's health department said Monday.

Mosquitoes on Staten Island were found to be carrying to potentially deadly disease. No cases have been reported in humans, officials said.

Mosquito season in New York City typically spans from April through September. The discovery prompted the city to increase monitoring of the insects and it will begin spraying if more cases are found, officials said.

Helicopters are already scheduled to spread chemicals that kill mosquito larva at the end of this month in march areas in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and The Bronx.

The West Nile virus in human can causes neurological issues that can be fatal, as well as flu-like illness and rashes.

“There are simple precautions you can take to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites when outside – wear insect repellent and cover your arms and legs, especially at dawn or dusk,” saidHealth Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett.

“Additionally, remove standing water from items that might harbor mosquitoes, including buckets, planters or any other containers that might be outdoors."

Standing water should be reported to the city by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv, officials said.

Lead image courtesy of Oregon State University.